The smoky tavern was filled with noise, most of it coming from the large table in the back corner of the room. A large group of young toughs were gathered there drinking and engaged in boisterous conversation. Their dress marked them as young nobles, while their swords marked them as probable students of one of the dueling academies that Restov was famed for.
"But Tristan, where could you possibly go from here? Surely you can make amends at home, afterall your father is stinking rich!"
"I've burned that bridge as thoroughly as could be." Responded the one that had been questioned. He was slightly older than the rest of the group and appeared to be its nominal leader.
"First, I'm the fourth son so I wouldn't be looking forward to much involvement in the family business even if I had the interest. Second, after I escaped that accursed monastery my father stuck me in...."
"Wait! What monastery? You were a monk?!?" interrupted one of the youngest at the table.
Tristan sighed. "Yes, for about a year. My father thought it would be a good idea to have kin in the monastery of Irori in the Icerime Peaks that overlooks one of the only trade routes through there. It didn't matter to him that I was completely unsuited for that lifestyle. Of course, back then was when I still believed all that "honor of the family" stuff. It was the most hellish year ever. Can you believe they expect you to drink water with dinner?"
The table burst out in laughter at that and Trsitan punctuated the ridiculousness of the idea by taking a long draught from his tankard.
"Well, needless to say, I stole out of that place as soon as I could. Although, I have to admit that some of the stuff I learned has been very useful here at the academy."
At that comment, there were several nods around the table. They all had seen Trsitan use techniques that were unique and even the instructors had commented on.
"Father was none too pleased when I returned and then when I sort of borrowed some family funds to come here, I believe that was too much for him. So, now I'm looking into some things I've heard and will strike out on my own. Besides I was getting sick of my family's insipid fawning over the Surtovas."
Several of the Rostlanders smiled at that. One of them responded.
"I hear rumor that the Restov council is going to offer charters to explore the Stolen Lands, perhaps you would be interested."
"Yes,"replied Stefan."I had heard the same. With such charters come lands and titles. With those I could completely sever my ties from here and begin a new House. Who knows, years from now you all could be visiting Lord Tristan."
Tristan beamed at the table. And was rewarded with good natured chuckling from the rest.
They think I'm joking, but I will found a new noble house and be remembered in the histories.
